Family want formal PSNI apology
Thursday, 12 January 2012
A BALLYCLARE family whose home was searched for a 'buried baby' has questioned the PSNI for not offering them a "formal apology".
Last July police began excavation work at a property at Hawthorne Way, after an anonymous tip-off led officers to believe that the body of a baby or small child could have been buried on the grounds of the home.
At the time PSNI officers were particularly interested in the patio at the rear of the property.
After four days of excavation work, including the use of sniffer dogs, the search ended, with officers satisfied there was nothing to be found.
But the McKenzie family, who have lived in the home for over 50 years, has said a formal apology for the "major stress and upset" caused has never been offered by the PSNI. A family spokesperson told the Gazette: "We are still very upset about what happened last summer.
“It has caused a lot of hurt, stress and upset and affected the entire family.
“We would like the PSNI to formally recognise this and believe we deserve a formal apology."
At the time of the investigation the PSNI made clear the search was not connected to the McKenzie family.
The family spokesperson added: "This was the home of the McKenzie family for over 50 years.
“The family knew that there was nothing to be found, and do appreciate that the PSNI had to do their job.
“The family hope that the PSNI continue the investigation and find the perpetrators of this malicious scandal and bring them to justice.
“The family would also like to thank everyone for their loyalty and support in Ballyclare throughout this traumatic ordeal."
A PSNI spokesperson said officers would be "happy to meet with the occupants to discuss their concerns".
Adding: "It was made clear by police from the outset that the search operation at Hawthorne Way was in no way connected to the current occupants of the address and this point was regularly stressed in all public communications.
“Officers also made every effort to keep the occupants as well informed as was possible throughout the three day operation."
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